SMITHSBURG – In his annual state of the town address Tuesday night, Mayor Donald L. Souders Jr. described Smithsburg as an “amazing town” defined by its beauty, strong community engagement, and commitment to safety, while outlining steady progress and a vision for continued growth without overburdening residents.
Delivered during the Mayor and Council’s March 3 meeting, the mayor’s speech highlighted 2025 accomplishments and set an optimistic tone for 2026.
“We are continuing to make Smithsburg a desired destination for our current residents, potential new residents, developers, visitors, and community neighbors,” Souders said.
The mayor emphasized smart investments in aging infrastructure as a core priority. He pointed to completed sewer upgrades, including lining under stream crossings and acquiring a backup pump, as well as the town’s first long-term capital improvement plans for water and sewer systems.
Those plans, developed with engineering firm RK&K, map out projects to reduce water loss, improve pressures and hydrant flow, and help moderate future rate increases while supporting economic development.
Parks and community spaces also featured prominently. Souders praised the Parks Commission’s work, including new signage at Lyons Community Park, the addition of trees at Veterans Park, and a planned grant application for upgraded playground equipment.
He noted early steps to transform the 1.12-acre town-owned lot at Geyser Way and North Main Street into a gathering place, with more than 60 trees planted as part of a volunteer-driven effort.
The mayor highlighted walkability improvements through a Maryland Safe Streets to School grant, which will fund ADA-compliant sidewalks, crosswalks with indicator lights, and pedestrian connections to the elementary school. He also mentioned recent charter amendments that eliminate special elections for council vacancies and provide more notice before utility disconnections.
On finances, Souders stressed restraint amid rising costs. The council absorbed only half of a 14% water supply increase from Hagerstown (passing through a 7% adjustment to customers), held sanitation fees flat despite higher contractor rates, and lowered the property tax rate for the fourth straight year while increasing public safety funding.
Looking ahead, Souders called for ongoing focus on infrastructure, grant pursuits, and partnerships. “There is much more work to be done,” he said. “So, let’s work together and do great things in 2026.”
He closed on a note of unity: “Though we may not always agree, I think we can all agree that the town is moving forward and the remainder of 2026 is going to be a great year for the town of Smithsburg. It is an absolute honor and my pleasure to serve our community as your mayor.”
The address served as a traditional annual update to residents, reflecting on the past year while reinforcing a collaborative, practical approach to governing the small Washington County community.
Souders has served as Mayor of Smithsburg since 2021. He previously served on the Town Council and once ran for governor of Maryland.
